How does pollution affect your skin?

How does pollution affect your skin?

Pollution represents a major risk to human health and, just as UV radiation can cause harmful effects on the largest organ of our body: the skin.

More than half of the world’s population lives in urban environments and is therefore exposed to the harmful effects of poor air quality daily. Proof of this is the different results observed in the statistics that conclude that the range of skin problems is higher in urbanised countries rather than other less developed.

Air pollution consists of about 224 toxic chemicals. These include fine particles, heavy metals, oxygen free radicals (ROS), nitrogen oxides (NO, NO2), sulphur dioxide (SO2), polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and other invisible harmful molecules that not only lay on the epidermis but can also reach the deeper layers and asphyxiate the skin. The epidermis acts as a barrier against environmental aggressions but it may be altered by:

The increase of free radicals that damage cellular DNA molecules and, consequently, the production of collagen and elastin

Reduction of natural antioxidant levels

Decrease in the supply of oxygen to the tissues

Inflammation

Pores clogging

Duller skin

Vasodilatation

Dehydration

It is important to mention that the skin’s defense mechanisms repairs partially the damage caused but, unfortunately, over the years this capacity diminishes.

Several studies, including “Goldsmith’s skin effects of Air Pollution”, describes the dermatological problems that pollution can cause. After a long exposure the skin suffers from flaccidity, dehydration and dull tone. In addition, it can contribute to the appearance of acne, sensitive skin, blemishes and obviously premature aging. There is speculation that it may even increase the risk of cancer.

With the intention of preventing and treating the above disorders, other studies propose some solutions. Among them we highlight:

The use of products containing antioxidants such as vitamin A, C, D and B complex (mainly Niacinamide, B3). NEFTIS ANTI-POLLUTION AMPOULES may be a good option, helping to combat oxidative stress and protecting skin cells from environmental toxicity.

The application of a serum formulated to moisturize and stimulate cell renewal by strengthening the epidermis. The aim is to protect the skin from premature aging. For this purpose we have designed a DNA REPAIR SERUM whose properties are aimed at reducing skin inflammation, resulting in a revitalized skin.

The use of a broad spectrum UVB and UVA sunscreen. For example, DNA REPAIR SPF50.

The usage of products intended to combat or neutralise free radicals and pollution. Our SLEEPING FLOSSY DETOX MASK might be a great option.